Williamnagar, Feb 16: Around 15 shops inside Williamnagar market in East Garo Hills have been destroyed in a fire that broke out late last night but fortunately no loss of life or injuries have been reported. A police investigation has begun to determine the cause of the blaze that broke out shortly after midnight.
According to East Garo Hills Superintendent of Police (SP) S.A. Rynjah, the fire originated from two different points in the market, making it challenging to bring the blaze under control, initially.
“Firefighters worked tirelessly to contain the flames, which were finally extinguished by 3:00 AM. Approximately 15-16 small shops were directly or indirectly damaged in the incident.”
SP Rynjah also stated that authorities are conducting a detailed inquiry to ascertain the cause of the fire. “Preliminary assessments suggest the possibility of an electrical short circuit, but the investigation is also examining CCTV footage to rule out arson or involvement of miscreants.”
The Fire and Emergency Services SP, Bruno A. Sangma, whose teams were on ground zero to contain the blaze provided further details, confirming that the fire call was received at 12:22 AM.
“Firefighters arrived promptly and began simultaneous operations at both points of origin. The flames were brought under control by 1:10 AM and fully extinguished by 3:00 AM. No human casualties or injuries were reported and the exact value of property lost or damaged is being assessed.”
Fire breakouts are a common problem in the Garo Hills, particularly during the dry season and most cases occur due to negligence, leaving a cooking stove or candle unattended, or poor electrical wiring.
Several weeks ago, several small shops next to Williamnagar Civil Hospital were destroyed in a similar blaze when someone left a cooking stove unattended.
A few months ago, shops next to the Tura super market were totally gutted in an early morning blaze, apparently caused by a short circuit.
